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Odisha Drivers'' Mahasangha strike hits oil, LPG transport in Paradip

In the coastal town of Paradip, Odisha, a significant disruption in the transportation of oil and LPG has emerged due to a strike initiated by the Odisha Drivers’ Mahasangha. This industrial action has brought to light the grievances of drivers associated with the transport sector, particularly those engaged in the movement of essential commodities like petroleum products. The strike, which has garnered considerable attention, has not only affected the supply chain in Paradip but also raised concerns about the broader implications for the state’s economy and energy security. The drivers’ union, representing a large number of workers in the region, has taken this drastic step to demand better working conditions, fair wages, and resolution of long-standing issues with transport companies and authorities.

Paradip, known for its strategic importance as a major port and industrial hub, serves as a critical node in the distribution network of oil and LPG across Odisha and neighboring states. The port handles a significant volume of petroleum products, which are transported to various parts of the region through a fleet of tankers and trucks. The drivers, who form the backbone of this logistics chain, have expressed frustration over what they describe as exploitative practices by transport contractors and inadequate support from the government. Their decision to strike has led to a near-complete halt in the movement of oil and LPG from Paradip, causing immediate concerns for fuel availability at petrol pumps and gas distribution centers.

The Odisha Drivers’ Mahasangha has articulated a series of demands that reflect the challenges faced by drivers in the sector. Among the primary issues is the demand for a revision of wages, which the drivers claim have not kept pace with the rising cost of living. Many drivers work long hours under strenuous conditions, often driving through difficult terrains and facing risks associated with transporting hazardous materials like oil and LPG. Despite these challenges, their compensation remains meager, with little to no benefits such as health insurance or job security. The union has highlighted that many drivers are hired on a contractual basis, leaving them vulnerable to sudden termination without notice or compensation.

Another critical issue raised by the Mahasangha is the lack of proper infrastructure and facilities for drivers at loading and unloading points in Paradip. Drivers often have to wait for extended periods at the port or depots, sometimes for days, without access to basic amenities like restrooms, drinking water, or resting areas. These conditions not only affect their physical well-being but also contribute to mental stress and fatigue, which can compromise road safety. The union has called for the establishment of dedicated facilities for drivers, including rest houses and medical support, to ensure their welfare during long hauls.

The strike has also brought attention to the alleged exploitation by transport contractors and middlemen who, according to the drivers, impose unfair terms and conditions. Many drivers are forced to bear the cost of vehicle maintenance and fuel, despite earning low wages. Additionally, there are complaints of arbitrary deductions from their payments under various pretexts, further reducing their income. The Mahasangha has demanded transparency in the payment system and strict action against contractors who violate labor norms. They have also urged the government to intervene and regulate the transport sector to prevent such malpractices.

The impact of the strike on the supply of oil and LPG has been immediate and severe. With hundreds of tankers and trucks remaining off the roads, the flow of petroleum products from Paradip to various parts of Odisha has been disrupted. This has led to fears of fuel shortages at petrol stations, with some areas already reporting limited stock. Similarly, the supply of LPG cylinders to households and commercial establishments has been affected, raising concerns among consumers who rely on these cylinders for cooking and other needs. Local businesses, particularly those dependent on fuel for operations, are also feeling the pinch, as the strike shows no immediate signs of resolution.

The broader economic implications of the strike cannot be overlooked. Paradip’s role as a key industrial and trade hub means that any disruption in its operations has a ripple effect across the state and beyond. The delay in the transportation of oil and LPG could lead to increased costs for businesses and consumers alike, as scarcity drives up prices. Moreover, the strike could deter investment in the region if industrial activities are perceived as being prone to such interruptions. Authorities are under pressure to address the situation swiftly to prevent further escalation and ensure that the supply chain is restored to normalcy.

Efforts to resolve the deadlock between the Odisha Drivers’ Mahasangha and the concerned stakeholders have so far yielded little result. The union remains firm on its demands, asserting that they will not call off the strike until concrete steps are taken to address their grievances. On the other hand, transport companies and contractors have expressed concerns about the financial implications of meeting the drivers’ demands, arguing that higher wages and improved facilities could strain their operations. The government, caught in the middle, faces the challenge of balancing the interests of the drivers with the need to maintain economic stability and ensure the uninterrupted supply of essential commodities.

Local residents and businesses in Paradip and surrounding areas are growing increasingly anxious about the situation. Many have called for dialogue and negotiation to find a middle ground that satisfies the drivers while minimizing the impact on the public. Some have suggested the involvement of labor unions and independent mediators to facilitate discussions and build trust between the parties involved. There is also a growing demand for long-term reforms in the transport sector to prevent such strikes from recurring in the future. This includes the formulation of policies that ensure fair treatment of drivers, regular wage revisions, and the provision of necessary infrastructure to support their work.

The strike by the Odisha Drivers’ Mahasangha in Paradip serves as a stark reminder of the often-overlooked challenges faced by workers in the logistics and transport industry. While their role is indispensable in keeping the economy running, their struggles for fair pay and humane working conditions frequently go unnoticed until disruptions like this bring them into the spotlight. The situation in Paradip underscores the urgent need for systemic changes to address the root causes of such disputes. It also highlights the importance of proactive engagement between workers, employers, and the government to create a sustainable and equitable framework for the transport sector.

As the strike continues, the focus remains on finding a resolution that not only addresses the immediate concerns of the drivers but also lays the groundwork for lasting improvements in their working conditions. The outcome of this industrial action could set a precedent for how similar issues are handled in other parts of Odisha and across India, where drivers and transport workers face comparable challenges. For now, the people of Paradip and beyond wait anxiously for a breakthrough, hoping that the supply of oil and LPG will soon resume without further hardship. The resolution of this strike will likely require compromise and collaboration, but it also presents an opportunity to address deep-seated issues in the transport industry and ensure that the voices of workers are heard and respected. Until then, the standstill in Paradip serves as a powerful call to action for all stakeholders to prioritize the welfare of those who keep the wheels of the economy turning.

Read the Full The New Indian Express Article at:
[ https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/odisha/2025/Jul/09/odisha-drivers-mahasangha-strike-hits-oil-lpg-transport-in-paradip ]